Firehouse 31 – Giving

Throughout my childhood, I observed my single mom doing what she could to help neighborhood causes. Often, she wasn’t able to give financially – instead, she found ways to contribute by coordinating events, soliciting donations and the ever-important “schlepping.” It is in this way that I learned to get involved and participate in local efforts.

Recently, I offered to coordinate a donation for the Waverly Firehouse #31 in Baltimore, MD. Following a massive rehab, the Firehouse hosted a Grand Opening Cookout on Saturday, May 29, 2010. Knowing that they would need food for this event, I contacted the Committee and offered to organize the purchase of hotdogs and buns for this event. Team members at Campaign Consultation, Inc. readily agreed to donate money for this purchase – and like my mom, I offered to buy and deliver the food. It was suggested that we invite Eddie’s Market of Charles Village to help us with this purchase. Not only did they match us “dog-for-dog and bun-for-bun,” but they sold us these items at cost! Due to the generosity of my co-workers, we had more than enough money to buy hot dogs and buns – as well as ketchup, mustard, relish and sauerkraut – so I opted to buy an Eddie’s gift certificate for the Firehouse to use for any “last minute items.”

There was a large turn out and friends remarked on the success of this event. I am honored to be a small part of this celebration – and to “pay it forward” as my mom has shown me time and time again.